4/C Welcome Packet

Welcome to the Wolverine Battalion!

May 2018

Table of Contents About the Navy and Marine Corps ........................................................................................................... 1

The United States Navy ........................................................................................................................... 1

The United States Marine Corps .............................................................................................................. 1

Introduction to NROTC ............................................................................................................................. 1

Mission Statement .................................................................................................................................... 1

Life as a Midshipman ............................................................................................................................... 1

University of Michigan NROTC Program ................................................................................................ 2

Drill Team ................................................................................................................................................. 2

Endurance Team ...................................................................................................................................... 3

Color Guard .............................................................................................................................................. 3

Sailing ....................................................................................................................................................... 3

Rifle and Pistol Team ................................................................................................................................ 3

Intramural and Commander’s Cup Sports ................................................................................................. 4

Tri-Service/Birthday Ball ............................................................................................................................ 4

Navy and Marine Corps Birthday Ball Run ................................................................................................ 5

Drill Meets .................................................................................................................................................. 5

Proper Military Etiquette ............................................................................................................................ 5

Greeting Senior Officers ............................................................................................................................ 5

Electronic Communications ....................................................................................................................... 8

Navy Option Warfare Areas ........................................................................................................................ 9

Aviation ...................................................................................................................................................... 9

Surface ...................................................................................................................................................... 9

SWO ............................................................................................................................................. 9

SWO Nuke .................................................................................................................................... 9

Sub-Surface ............................................................................................................................................. 10

Special Operations ................................................................................................................................... 10

4/C ................................................................................................................................................. 11

3/C ................................................................................................................................................. 11

2/C ................................................................................................................................................. 11

1/C ................................................................................................................................................. 11

Nursing Options ........................................................................................................................................ 12

Marine Options .......................................................................................................................................... 12

Summer Cruise .......................................................................................................................................... 13

3rd Class Cruise ........................................................................................................................................ 13

Career Orientation and Training for Midshipmen (CORTRAMID) ................................................ 13

Nursing ......................................................................................................................................... 13

2nd Class Cruise (Non-Nurse Option) ........................................................................................................ 14

Battle Stations (Navy Options Only) ................................................................................................ 14

Amphib Cruise (Marine Options Only) ............................................................................................. 14

1st Class Cruise ......................................................................................................................................... 14

Aviation........................................................................................................................................... 14

SWO .............................................................................................................................................. 15

SWO Nuke .................................................................................................................................... 15

Sub-Surface .................................................................................................................................. 16

Special Warfare/Special Operations ............................................................................................. 16

Nursing .......................................................................................................................................... 16

OCS (Marine) ................................................................................................................................. 17

Lessons Learned ....................................................................................................................................... 17

Bring all suggested gear for cruise ............................................................................................... 17

Off-Campus Housing in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti .......................................................................... 17

Advice for Success ........................................................................................................................ 18

1

About the Navy and Marine Corps

The United States Navy The United States Navy was founded on 13 October, 1775. Its mission is to “maintain,

train and equip combat-ready naval forces capable of winning wars, deterring

aggression and maintaining freedom of the seas.” The navy achieves its mission

through the employment of 283 ships, over 3,700 aircraft, and 325,000 personnel.

The United States Marine Corps Founded in Tun Tavern (a tavern and brewery in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania) on 10

November, 1775, the original purpose of the Marine Corps was to be an infantry

contingent aboard naval vessels, responsible for ship security and conducting boarding

operations. In the 20th century, the role of the Marine Corps evolved to its present

specialization in amphibious warfare and power projection from the sea.

Today the Marine Corps is America’s “Expeditionary Force in Readiness.” Forward

deployed in Marine Expeditionary Units, they are able to respond quickly to global crises

and be the “First to Fight.”

Introduction to NROTC

Mission Statement of the NROTC Program The NROTC Program was established to develop midshipmen mentally, morally and

physically and to imbue them with the highest ideals of duty, and loyalty, and with the

core values of honor, courage and commitment in order to commission college

graduates as naval officers who possess a basic professional background, are

motivated toward careers in the naval service, and have a potential for future

development in mind and character so as to assume the highest responsibilities of

command, citizenship and government.

Life as a Midshipman Life as a Midshipman in NROTC is different from that of your fellow peers at college.

You are required to attend two Physical Training (PT) sessions a week on Monday and

Wednesday mornings. Depending on whether you are a Navy Option midshipman or a

Marine Option midshipman, you are required to take certain Naval Science classes to

further develop your leadership and knowledge of the service in which you will one day

serve as a commissioned officer. Every semester you will be required to pass one

official Physical Readiness Test (PRT), if you are a Navy option, or Physical Fitness

Test (PFT), if you are a Marine option. You will also be required to pass the Professor of

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Naval Science (PNS) Inspection. This is a test of your knowledge of the Naval Service,

chain of command, and a uniform inspection.

Additionally, there are plenty of extracurricular activities in the battalion to be a part of:

Competition Drill, Squad Drill, Rifle/Pistol Team, Endurance Team, Sailing Team,

Commander’s Cup Sports, and Intramural Sports.

As a freshman, you will be required to attend three hours of study hall per week in your

first semester. It will be held in the Halle Library for Eastern students, and the building is

TBD for Michigan students as Ruthven will no longer be available. There is a tutor

available for assistance with General

Chemistry, Physics I and II, and Calculus I and II. Students that are currently enrolled in

Physics I and II or Calculus I and II are required to complete 2 hours of weekly tutoring

per course. This requirement may be waived by the Commanding Officer once a

student proves him/herself academically. There are also several midshipmen study

groups for several freshman level classes including: General Chemistry, Physics I and

II, Engineering 100 and 101, and Calculus I and II. As a Midshipman, you will be

required to maintain above a 2.75 GPA to stay off study hours after your first semester.

If you do not meet this requirement, you will be assigned additional study hours for the

following semester. If you attain a GPA of 2.74 to 2.51 you will be assigned 2 NROTC

proctored study hours per week. If you attain a GPA of 2.5 to 2.0, you will go before a

Performance Review Board (PRB), and be assigned at least 3 NROTC proctored study

hours per week. If you attain a GPA of 1.99 or below, you will go before a Performance

Review Board (PRB), and you will be assigned at least 5 NROTC proctored study hours

per week .

These next four years of your life as a college student will be filled with long days and

early mornings, but the dedication and work you put in now will assist in making you into

the officer that you will be in the Fleet. Learn everything you can in your next four years

as the journey you embark upon, once commissioned, will require you to utilize many of

the tools you will be equipped with over the next four years.

University of Michigan NROTC Program

Drill Team All midshipmen are highly encouraged to try out for the University of Michigan NROTC

platoon and squad drill teams. These teams test attention to detail, military bearing, and

the ability to drill smartly. Each semester, these teams will get to demonstrate their skill

in these areas by attending a drill meet either at another university or at the Wolverine

Battalion Drill Meet.

The platoon drill team consists of 18 members and the squad drill team consists of six

members. Any number of midshipmen may try out for the team, but cuts may have to be

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made in order to not exceed these limits. Practices typically run for four to six weeks on

Tuesday and Thursday mornings. Any midshipman on the Fitness Enhancement

Program is not eligible to participate.

Endurance Team Mental and physical endurance are essential traits for every Naval Officer to possess.

The Endurance Team instills these traits in its members through rigorous training and

competition. Practices consist of a combination of runs with a 45 pound pack, long runs

without a pack, calisthenics, and weightlifting. These practices take place during and

outside of Battalion PT throughout the course of the semester. The Endurance Team

competition occurs during drill meets and consists of exercises similar to those

performed during practice. The Endurance Team is physically and mentally grueling and

provides benefits such as teaching teamwork, endurance, and fortitude. Any

midshipman on the Fitness Enhancement Program is not eligible to participate.

Color Guard The Battalion participates in a multitude of color guard events, all of which are open to

all members of the Unit. These include, but are not limited to: raising the flag at

Michigan football games, presenting the colors at Michigan basketball games, and

competing at the drill competitions.

The competition color guard consists of five members; three flag bearers and two rifle

bearers. Practice is typically on Tuesday and Thursday mornings for two months

leading up to competition. Tryouts for the team are open to any member of the

Battalion. Any midshipman on the Fitness Enhancement Program is not eligible to

participate.

All other color guard details are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Any Battalion

member may volunteer for any detail, regardless of experience. Many details include

special opportunities, such as the ability to watch football games from the field.

Sailing Sailing has played an integral role in the history of the US Navy. Through development

of seamanship skills as a midshipman, you will be better equipped to intuitively handle

ships as an officer when out in the fleet. The sailing program has been a compulsory

program required of Naval ROTC units throughout the U.S. Due to a general lack of

lake and boat access, many units have been forced to discontinue their programs.

Unfortunately, the University of Michigan NROTC unit falls in that category, and it is

unclear if that will change in the near future.

Rifle and Pistol Team Marksmanship is the cornerstone of the saying “Every Marine is a rifleman.” These

teams are available to all midshipmen, and participation is encouraged for all those

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interested. Both teams utilize .22 caliber firearms, and they practice and compete at

both outdoor and indoor facilities. In addition to proficiency with a small caliber rifle or

pistol, weapons safety rules are taught and strictly enforced at all times. While these

teams may demand much of their members, they offer the opportunity for midshipmen

to learn how to safely handle firearms, learn from more experienced marksmen, and

compete with teams from other universities.

Intramural and Commander’s Cup Sports Intramural (IM) and Commander’s Cup (CC) sports are an excellent way to get involved

in the battalion. They build teamwork and camaraderie amongst midshipmen in a fun

and competitive environment. The University of Michigan NROTC battalion fields

several IM sports teams. There are a multitude of IM sports available to both Eastern

Michigan University and University of Michigan students, and you do not pay to be on

an NROTC IM sports team. University of Michigan students can participate in sports

such as basketball, dodgeball, volleyball, and broomball. Eastern Michigan Students

can participate in sports such as basketball, flag football, table tennis, and dodgeball.

In addition to the IM sports at your respective university, all midshipmen may participate

in CC sports. CC sports events are played against the Army and Air Force ROTC units

located at U of M. CC sports include flag football, softball, cross country, and golf. All of

these events count for points, and the service with the most points at the end of each

year is awarded the Commander’s Cup, as well as bragging rights for the year. Prior

experience is not required to participate in either IM or CC sports teams. All that is

asked of you is that you show up and give your all. The more you participate, the more

fun you and your fellow midshipmen will have.

Tri-Service/Birthday Ball Every semester, the NROTC battalion holds a formal ball in order to maintain tradition

and build camaraderie. In the Fall semester, the NROTC unit holds the Navy and

Marine Corps Birthday Ball to celebrate the beginning of these services. This is a

Navyand Marine Corps-wide celebration and is exclusive to the NROTC battalion and

its guests. In the Winter semester, all ROTC units at the University of Michigan host the

Tri-Service ball. This is to celebrate the camaraderie between United States Armed

Forces and the camaraderie between the Units here at the University of Michigan.

Both of these balls are celebrated in similar fashion. Each midshipman is allowed and

encouraged to bring a date to the ball. There is a cash bar (for those 21 or older), a DJ,

and a traditional ceremony. Dinner is provided with the purchase of a ticket. Each

midshipman is expected to purchase a ticket for themselves and also for their guest if

they choose to bring one.

Midshipmen are able to try out to be on one of the various ceremony details for the

balls. Those on the details will be expected to attend two to three practices prior to the

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ball. These events are a great way to build camaraderie among midshipmen as well as

provide a less formal setting for midshipmen to interact with the officers of the unit staff.

However, midshipmen must remember the rank that officers hold and continue to pay

them the proper respect due, even though the setting is less formal.

Navy and Marine Corps Birthday Run The annual Navy and Marine Corps Birthday Ball Run is a three-day event that takes

place in November near the time of the Marine Corps Birthday. To celebrate the rich

heritage of each branch, the unit collectively runs one mile for every year of service.

Starting outside of the Chemistry Building and continuing around the University of

Michigan Diag, alternating members of the unit run the one mile course – in three mile

shifts – at all hours of the day and night. Each shift is comprised of four individuals

including a pair of runners and a pair of upper-class midshipmen supervisors. At the

conclusion of the event, the entire unit finishes the last three miles together in a

battalion run.

Drill Meets Every semester the Drill Team participates in one competitive drill meet if possible. Drill

meets are attended by the Platoon, Squad, and Exhibition Drill Teams, as well as the

Competition Color Guard Team, the Rifle/Pistol Teams, and the Endurance Team. In

the fall semester, the University of Michigan Wolverine Battalion Drill Team travels to

another university hosting a drill meet. These locations have ranged from Colorado to

South Carolina, and depend on which school hosts the competitions. In the winter

semester the Wolverine Battalion hosts its own drill meet and invites schools from

across the nation to visit our location and compete with us across all events.

Each battalion works towards the goal of taking home first place in their competition.

While this brings validation for all the hard work put in beforehand, it is also a great way

to meet peers from around the country. Similar opportunities exist in the form of summer

training, but the level of camaraderie experienced after a trying competition cannot be

replicated.

The only way to participate in these outstanding events is to participate on one of the

aforementioned teams. That said, the winter semester competition is an All-Hands

event, and everyone in the Battalion is required to participate in some form or fashion to

continue the success our forbearers have passed down.

Proper Military Etiquette

Greeting Senior Officers In all militaries of the world, all officers and subordinates are required to salute each

other whenever they meet or pass, the subordinate saluting first. The salute on the part

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of the subordinate is not intended in any way as an act of degradation or a mark of

inferiority, but is simply a military courtesy that is as binding on the officer as it is on the

enlisted man. Just as the enlisted man is required to salute the officer first, the junior

officer is required to salute his superiors first.

A salute in the American military when one is not carrying a weapon is rendered with the

upper right arm straight out and parallel to the deck, the wrist straight, and the hand flat,

with the tips of the index and middle fingers against the brim of one’s cover. The hand

should be tilted slightly down, with the palm towards you.

A salute is only to be rendered when the subordinate is in uniform and has headgear on.

Usually, this means that salutes will only be given out of doors. Further discussion of

when and how salutes shall be given in various situations will be covered in greater

detail at a later time. Note that exceptions exist. Be aware that members of the Army

and Air Force will salute uncovered and even when in PT attire.

In addition to salutes, the greeting of the day should always be given to officers and

senior midshipmen, both in cases where salutes are to be rendered, and any time

where a subordinate is addressing an officer. The greeting of the day is simple, and

follows the following formula: “Good morning/afternoon/evening, sir/ma’am.” If there is

more than one officer being saluted, then “gentlemen/ladies” should be used instead. If

in mixed company, women are addressed first, then men; i.e., “Good afternoon ma’am,

good afternoon sir.”

As midshipmen, you will also interact with enlisted personnel. You do not salute

enlisted personnel, but you are required to give them the greeting of the day. Note that,

in the Marine Corps, it is a sign of respect to address an enlisted marine by his full rank.

So, if greeting a Staff Sergeant in the morning, the proper greeting of the day would be

“Good morning, Staff Sergeant!” The last name of the marine in question may be

included as well. For Navy enlisted personnel, it is prudent to greet them with their rate

as well. Navy enlisted personnel who are a part of the unit may also be addressed as

“Officer Candidate.”

Finally, midshipmen and cadets who hold officer billets are entitled to salutes. It is

important to familiarize oneself with the midshipman and cadet chain of command in

order to learn who holds which billets.

Members of the Naval Services are not the only personnel one should salute. Salutes

are rendered to all of the following officers: Navy, Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast

Guard, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Public Health Service,

Foreign military services. Additionally, Officers of the Navy, Army, Air Force, Marine

Corps, and Coast Guard Reserves, and Officers of the National Guard will be saluted

when they are on active duty. When not on active duty, they rate a salute only when

they are in uniform.

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Before addressing an officer, or when addressed by an officer, a subordinate comes to

attention if standing still or to a walk if moving, makes the prescribed salute with the

weapon with which he is armed, or if unarmed, with the hand. He also makes the same

salute after receiving a reply.

In saluting, the hand is held in position of salute until the salute has been acknowledged

or until the officer has passed or has been passed.

Saluting distance is that within which recognition is easy; usually about six paces. If they

do not approach each other that closely, as when they are not walking directly towards

each other, the salute is exchanged as the point of nearest approach. If a subordinate

passes an officer from the rear, the hand is raised as he reaches the officer; if an officer

passes a subordinate from the rear, the subordinate salutes just as the officer is about

to pass him. If a subordinate is overtaking an officer, instead of giving the greeting of

the day, he should instead say “By your leave, sir/ma’am,” and wait for the officer to

return the salute before passing.

When the commanding officer enters the room, someone will call “Attention on Deck!”

This is the signal for all present to stand up at the position of attention.

When an officer passes a subordinate engaged in duty where both hands are occupied,

the subordinate does not salute, he or she simply gives the greeting of the day.

Service members actually at work do not cease work to salute an officer unless

addressed by him or her.

When several officers in company are saluted, all entitled to the salute return it.

When walking with a senior, always walk on that person’s left, that is, with the senior on

your right. If you and the senior encounter other personnel requiring the exchange of

salutes, you should follow his or her motions; that is, when the senior salutes you

should also salute; once the senior you are accompanying has dropped his or her

salute, you should immediately also drop yours.

A man in formation does not salute when directly addressed, but comes to attention if at

rest. Your platoon commander or platoon sergeant will have saluted for your formation,

and there is no need to do so again.

Salutes are not rendered when running or marching in double time. The subordinate

must first come to a walk before saluting. The subordinate should not, however, come

to a full stop if they are passing by the officer. The question of gait applies to the person

saluting and not to the one saluted - so; a subordinate would salute an officer passing in

double time.

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Electronic Communication With the advent of emails, military courtesies have been adapted for electronic

communications. When writing an email to be sent to military personnel, how one

opens and closes the email follow specific rules.

When opening an email and addressing the recipient(s), one begins with the greeting of

the day, as covered. The time of day which determines your greeting should be based

on where you are - for example, a midshipman sending an email at 1100 from San

Diego to someone in Ann Arbor, where it would be 1400, will still begin with “Good

morning sir/ma’am.”

When addressing fellow midshipmen who do not hold officer billets, one uses

“Midshipman Smith” or the abbreviated form, “MIDN Smith.” When sending a mass

email to several persons, “Good morning/afternoon/evening all” is an acceptable

substitute.

When asking something of an officer, whether over email or in person, one should

“respectfully request” of them whatever it is that you need. Do not demand things of

them; you are not their boss, they are yours. Also, do not use slang or abbreviations

(excepting official military abbreviations or acronyms) in the body of your email; these

are unprofessional and therefore should not be included.

When closing an email, one should end with “Very Respectfully,” when writing to

superiors, and “Respectfully,” when writing to subordinates. The abbreviations “V/R”

and “R”, respectively, may also on occasion be used. In the following line, sign as your

abbreviated rank and your last name - for example, “MIDN 4/C Jones.”

Example Email:

Good Afternoon Sir,

This is the body of the email.

Very Respectfully,

MIDN 3/C Smith

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Navy Option Warfare Areas

Aviation Naval Aviation is a critical component of naval power projection and maritime patrol. By

operating from international waters, aircraft carriers can bypass the need for

conventional air bases. The two aviation designations available to naval officers are

Naval Aviator and Naval Flight Officer. As the name implies, naval aviators are

responsible for flying their aircraft. Naval flight officers specialize in the operation of

weapons and sensing systems aboard their aircraft. The four communities in naval

aviation are Tailhook, Rotary Wing, Patrol and Reconnaissance, and TACAMO.

Tailhook aircraft like the F/A-18 and E-2C takeoff and land from aircraft carriers.

Helicopters, such as the MH-60, fill a variety of roles including search and rescue,

maritime patrol, and logistics support. Multi-Engine aircraft engage in maritime patrol

and strategic communications.

The training pipeline for a member of the aviation community ranges in length

depending on weather conditions, the number of students currently in training, and

maintenance issues of the training aircraft. The training syllabus includes Introductory

Flight Screening (IFS), Aviation Preflight Indoctrination (API), Primary, Intermediate and

Advanced, and finally the Fleet Replacement Squadron.

Surface

SWO

The surface warfare community is the quintessence of our Navy and forms the

backbone of Fleet leadership. This community is one that offers the opportunity

to work on a variety of different ships ranging from destroyers engaged in anti-

piracy operations to minesweepers engaged in dangerous high-tempo

operations. One aspect that sets apart the surface warfare community from other

communities is the high level of leadership that is immediately required of newly

commissioned Ensigns. In this role, you will have the opportunity to excel as a

leader more quickly than in any other community.

SWO Nuke

Nuclear-powered aircraft carriers are among our country’s most valuable tools of

diplomacy. Aircraft carriers allow the Navy to maintain a forward air and sea

presence, so they can intervene in an international conflict at a moment’s notice.

Nuclear Surface Warfare Officers are in charge of maintaining and operating the

complex systems aboard these incredible vessels. The training pipeline for

Nuclear Surface Warfare Officers begins with a tour aboard a conventionally

powered Navy surface ship. This first sea tour usually lasts about two years.

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Once they have met all of the qualifications of a Surface Warfare Officer, Nuclear

Surface Warfare Officers will begin the Nuclear Power School and Prototype

portion of their training pipeline. This is the same training that Submarine Officers

undergo immediately following their commissioning. After completing Nuclear

Power School and Prototype, Nuclear Surface Warfare Officers report to their

first aircraft carrier to serve as a division officer.

Sub-Surface The submarine community is one of the most technical communities within the United

States Navy. All officers in this field are not only qualified in navigating submarines, but

also trained nuclear reactor operators. All submarine officers first go to Nuclear Power

School in Charleston, South Carolina and then Nuclear Prototype School either in

Charleston or Saratoga Springs, New York. This schooling process takes eighteen

months before submarine officers reach the fleet.

The submarine fleet accomplishes its mission with three different platforms: ballistic

missile submarines (SSBN), guided missile submarines (SSGN), and fast attack

submarines (SSN). The Ohio class submarine is the United States Navy’s only type of

ballistic missile submarine. This platform carries intercontinental ballistic nuclear

missiles utilized for strategic deterrence. All midshipmen that go on their CORTRAMID

summer cruise will board an Ohio class submarine for a couple of days. Four Ohio class

submarines have been converted into guided missile submarines. These carry special

operations forces and have their ballistic missile complement replaced with conventional

guided missiles. There are two classes of fast attack submarines: the Virginia class and

the Los Angeles class. These submarines are used for hunter-killer missions,

surveillance, and submarine detection. These submarines are even used for research

missions to the North Pole.

Special Warfare/Special Operations A good overview of the process for Special Operations Forces candidates is the

following webpage; it applies equally to aspiring SEAL and EOD Officers.

http://www.nrotc.navy.mil/special_warfare.html

Unfortunately, the EOD page is not as accurate in terms of the selection process but

they are basically the same. More current information regarding the selection cruises

can be found below in the 1/C Summer Cruise section.

The SEAL and EOD communities are testing heart and character in addition to physical

and mental abilities. These latter aspects are important but who you are should be your

foundation, not just what you can do. Live and breathe the Ethos. Both communities

have one. Memorize it as soon as possible. This is critical to forming the small habits,

which will develop your character.

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Write down semester and yearly goals to continually track your progress. It is a great

source of motivation to see how far you have progressed, and you can also use it to

show a SEAL officer when pursuing a letter of recommendation. This will help them get

to know you as a person and it demonstrates discipline and dedication.

Compose a personal statement. Start this as early as possible and continue to review it.

It is an essential part of your package as well as a living document. Between 7-10

revisions is not unheard of. As you develop, your motivations may change and they will

mature, which is a good thing.

4/C

Try everything! Get used to the NROTC life during your first semester and focus on

finding balance. Second semester and beyond, work on branching out and serving in

multiple communities. Pick something that you're interested in and don't be afraid to

think outside the box. Try and engage in the diverse nature of the university with

multiple types of people and groups. This will help you become a more versatile leader

and you can really learn a lot.

3/C

Take the initial leadership opportunities as they come. Continue to find the balance

between school, ROTC, and your personal development. Consider taking a foreign

language class or two. This will make you a more competitive candidate for SOF and

increase your cultural awareness. One way to fit this in your schedule is through Project

GO. This is an excellent program that provides funding for ROTC students to study

foreign languages domestically and abroad during the summer. Do NOT let your grades

slip.

2/C

Begin to compile your Special Operations Candidate package. Hone in on specific areas

you would like to specialize in. This may mean cutting back or leaving some of the

groups you had first joined. Become a physical workhorse and prepare for a Special

Operations Cruise-SEAL Officer Assessment and Selection (SOAS) or the EOD

equivalent. Follow and exceed the standards on www.sealswcc.com.

1/C

If you have been selected, continue to push yourself. Stay in touch with the friends you

have made over cruise and motivate each other. You now know what you need to do

and how to get there. It is just the beginning of a long road with many challenges.

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Helpful Resources

www.sealswcc.com

www.sealfit.com

www.brassringfitness.com

www.smallwarsjournal.com

Nursing Options

The purpose of the nursing option scholarship within the Naval ROTC program is to

expose and prepare future naval officers to the profession of nursing, along with

providing exposure to the navy lifestyle. These students will be trained in the same

manner as other midshipmen, including morning PT sessions, attending drill once a

week, participating in color guard, drill team, and other voluntary opportunities.

However, nursing option midshipmen take only four of the naval science classes and

have different course requirements from the other navy midshipmen. These courses

required and other information to graduate and commission on time are in the

midshipmen handbook. Whenever uncertain, midshipmen should discuss questions with

their advisors. A recommendation is to always ensure that clinicals do not coincide with

other ROTC events, and if they do, send up waivers promptly and timely!

Nursing options are typically to stand “corpsmen” duty at high-risk events, such as

Charlie Company field exercises, endurance courses, freshmen induction week, and

other events where midshipmen may get injured. At these events, it is usually a

responsibility of the nursing options to ensure the medical bags and AEDs are present,

up to date, and packed with the necessary equipment. Life as a nursing option

midshipman in NROTC is similar to other midshipmen, but differences stem from the

required courses to be taken and roles that nursing options inherit.

Marine Options

As a Marine Option at the University of Michigan you will be a member of Charlie

Company. Charlie Company holds separate Drill and PT sessions from the rest of the

battalion in order to prepare Marine Options to attend Officer Candidates School (OCS).

PT and classes are focused on developing the Marine Option mentally, morally, and

physically to succeed at OCS. Upperclassmen act as mentors and develop the training

plans for Charlie Company. A key component to OCS preparation is the ability to lead a

squad of fellow officer candidates. To practice this, Charlie Company devotes much of

its time to learning squad tactics and how to employ them. To practice skills such as

land navigation and squad tactics Charlie Company attends two field exercises each

year at Ft. Custer, located in Battle Creek, MI. During this time, students are placed in a

field environment and receive practical application leading 12 fellow midshipmen in

squad maneuvers and navigating through miles of woods on their own.

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Members of Charlie Company participate in most other aspects of the Battalion. Marine

Options are encouraged to participate in Commanders Cup sports, Veterans hospital

visits, and other extracurricular activities. Charlie Company participates in an array of

competition teams with their Navy counterparts such as the platoon drill team, squad

drill team, and the rifle and pistol teams. Additionally, Marine Options receive training in

the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program during PT. Your time in Charlie Company will be

demanding but well worth the reward of being prepared for OCS and earning a

commission in the United States Marine Corps.

Summer Cruise

3rd Class Cruise

Career Orientation and Training for Midshipmen (CORTRAMID) CORTRAMID will be the first, and arguably the most important cruise that you will go

on. This cruise is used to help expose you to all the different warfare areas the Navy

offers which are Surface Warfare, Aviation, Submarines, and the Marine Corps.

CORTRAMID is offered in two different time slots, one being earlier in the summer and

one being later in the summer. These are commonly referred to by their geographic

location as CORTRAMID West (San Diego, Ca.) or East (Norfolk, Va.). While there are

differences between the two locations based on what the naval base can support

training-wise, the two different locations will offer essentially the same experience.

When you arrive for CORTRAMID, you will be placed into a platoon with midshipmen

from all over the country. You will rotate through the four communities listed above,

spending one week with each community. Your training will include hands-on

experience, where you will serve aboard a submarine, in an aviation wing, and aboard a

surface vessel, and observe what basic training is like in the Marine Corps. Not only

does this cruise afford you the opportunity to see what the Navy offers in order to make

a well-informed career choice, it also allows you to act as a diplomat for our unit and

gives you the chance to network with other midshipmen that you will eventually work

with in the fleet.

Nursing The 3rd class nursing cruise is a very interesting experience that exposes nursing

option midshipmen to experience what it is like to be on a ship and experience what it is

like to be a nurse in the fleet. 3rd class nursing options are able to spend a large

amount of time with medical staff, such as the nurses, doctors, and/or corpsmen during

their cruise which is very beneficial. The purpose of the cruise is to immerse nursing

options into the daily schedule of a nurse/corpsmen and provide familiarity with the

differences between a navy nurse and civilian nurse, along with the differences in being

a nurse in the navy versus a SWO, nuke, aviator, etc. When preparing for the cruise, it

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is important to read the packing list to determine what is needed. Some cruises are in

Norfolk, for example, but some midshipmen may be assigned to a deployed ship. This is

important to determine what to pack. Generally, the uniforms required are NWUs and

coveralls, hygiene materials, undergarments, and civilian clothes (for if/when liberty is

granted). However, uniform requirements may change, so check the packing list.

Because it is a nursing cruise, it is beneficial to bring along a stethoscope, penlight, and

paper and pens. Cruises that are underway typically have days when the medical area

of the ship is open to allow for sailors to come be examined if feeling sick, which

includes taking vital signs, asking questions about symptoms of their illnesses,

potentially giving vaccinations, and more basic nursing skills! This is a great learning

experience with these basic skills that are translated directly into nursing practice once

commissioned.

Some cruises may involve observing surgery, and if so, ask to watch! There are very

few chances in nursing school to see surgeries and procedures as close as you may be

able to on your cruise. If something interests you, even if not necessarily nursingrelated,

seek it out! There are plenty of opportunities to sit in on briefs on other aspects of the

navy, talk to aviators, see where the food is prepared, and more. It is truly an

eyeopening experience, and there is no better way to learn about the fleet and what it

really means to be a part of the navy, than to experience it firsthand.

2nd Class Cruise (Non-Nurse Option)

Battle Stations (Navy Options Only) Navy Options will no longer be attached to a surface or sub-surface vessel for their 2nd

Class Cruise. They will now attend Battle Stations, which will be a 10-day event that

includes earning qualifications and receiving training in the following categories:

damage control, wet trainer, firefighting, pistol, shiphandling, drill, PT, and swimming.

This is a new transition and additional info will be released as it becomes available.

Amphib Cruise (Marine Options Only) After sophomore year, Marine Options no longer go to the Mountain Warfare Training

Center (MWTC) for summer training. They will now go on a cruise aboard an

amphibious assault ship to experience Marine life as part of an expeditionary strike

group (ESG). This is a new transition and additional info will be released as it becomes

available.

1st Class Cruise

Aviation 1st class midshipmen who are interested in the aviation community, whether as a Pilot or

Naval Flight Officer, are highly encouraged to apply for the opportunity to explore the

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different communities and platforms the naval aviation community has to offer.

Midshipmen are assigned to a specific squadron operating one of the Navy’s many

aircraft, ranging from the MH-53 to F/A-18, and is responsible for the midshipmen’s

training. Requests can be made for a specific aircraft or location, but there is no

guarantee that they will be granted. Midshipmen interested in a specific aircraft should

request that platform or the base at which that aircraft is located.

Training for midshipmen varies based on squadron, but usually includes ride-along

flights, flight briefings, and daily operations of the squadron. Additionally, midshipmen

can visit other squadrons for a day to experience the different aviation communities, and

get a sense of the mentality and similarities between the communities. There are

numerous opportunities available that depend on the schedule of the squadron, e.g.

workups and detachments that midshipmen are strongly recommended to pursue and

seek out through the squadrons Cruise Coordinator. The most important thing to

remember is that this cruise should be used to verify the desire to join the naval aviation

community.

SWO All midshipmen that are strongly leaning towards a career in the surface warfare

community should attend a 1st class surface warfare tour. These cruises are on any of

the various surface platforms that the Navy has to offer. Midshipmen on this type of

cruise will spend much of their time interacting with the officers aboard. The purpose of

this cruise is to expose midshipmen to the lifestyle they can expect as junior officers

aboard a surface vessel. Each midshipman will be assigned a running mate that is a

junior officer (LTJG or ENS). From their running mate, midshipmen will learn about the

surface warfare pipeline, how to qualify for their surface warfare pin, and the daily life of

a surface warfare officer.

SWO Nuke The 1st class surface warfare nuclear cruise is conducted on an aircraft carrier. On this

cruise you will be assigned a junior officer to whom you will shadow throughout the

course of the cruise. You will follow your assigned officer and work alongside them as a

part of the Reactor Division. During your time with that officer, you will be standing

watch, participating in training sessions, running through drills, and getting a feel for

everything a junior nuclear officer does aboard a carrier. Most officers will give you the

freedom to explore the ship, which will afford you the opportunity to see the endless

aspects of a nuclear aircraft carrier. While exploring the ship it is worthwhile to talk to

other officers and learn about all the ship systems. This cruise incorporates aspects of

the aviation, surface, and nuclear communities, and is therefore perfect for those still on

the fence about which warfare option to select. Motivated midshipmen learn a lot from

these cruises, and have a lot of fun in the process. If there is anything you wish to do,

do not be afraid to ask.

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Sub-Surface Like other 1st class cruises, on the sub-surface cruise you will shadow a junior officer on

the submarine to which you are assigned. You will follow the junior officer through his or

her daily activities and may even stand watches with him or her. The intent is for you to

see the day to day life of a junior officer so that you know what to expect after Nuclear

Power School. You will be treated like an officer on this cruise, and you will eat your

meals in the wardroom.

This cruise is variable in length and can last anywhere from a week to a month. You

may also end up on any sub-surface platform, a fast attack, a guided missile, or a

ballistic missile submarine. Cruises on ballistic missile submarines tend to run longer

than those on fast attack submarines.

During this cruise you are encouraged to explore as much of the submarine as possible.

Ask the sailors what their day consists of, ask them what they do on their watches, and

visit all the different compartments. Most commands will give you a “Midshipman

Qualification Card” with various tasks and knowledge items for you to go learn about

and have signed off. This is usually voluntary, but highly encouraged since it will teach

you a great deal about the platform you are aboard as well as the daily life of the crew.

Special Warfare/Special Operations Expect to be pushed farther than ever before both mentally and physically. They are

continually working to improve the process and it will likely be different because the

process is constantly evolving (for example, it used to be known as mini-BUD/S).

Nonetheless, prepare to run, swim, and PT most of the day. Despite your preparations,

it will still exceed your expectations. It is better to be as prepared as possible so you can

demonstrate who you are. Be a good teammate and don't force leadership

opportunities. You are constantly being assessed and it is best to just be yourself. It

may be helpful to consider it as a multiple week long job interview. This is your shot to

get a ticket to ride the train, so give it everything you have got.

Nursing Given the small size of the Nurse Corps and even smaller size of nursing classes

commissioning via NROTC, you will be in a very small group of 1/C nurses. You will be

spending your time at one of the Navy’s “Big 3” hospitals: Portsmouth, Bethesda or San

Diego. Your group will report to a training officer who will maintain your accountability

for the training schedule.

While you are in the hospital you will shadow both civilian and military nurses and learn

about the inner workings of a naval hospital. In many ways it will mirror your clinical

observations from nursing school but it is also quite different. Spending time in a military

hospital, you will witness team nursing and other styles of work that are specific to the

military medicine community.

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On cruise you will also learn about what it will be like to report to your first duty station,

go through orientation, and be a navy nurse. It is important to look at all subspecialties

and advanced careers with an open mind. Being a navy nurse can take you in so many

directions, this is just the beginning of all the opportunities that you will have when you

graduate.

OCS (Marine Options Only) Officer Candidates School consists of six weeks of training during the summer after your

junior year at Marine Corps Base Quantico. OCS will test all of the skills you have been

taught during your time in NROTC. This includes land navigation, knowledge, squad

tactics, leadership, and PT. PT takes place in the mornings and includes both graded

and non-graded events. The graded events include timed runs of the obstacle course,

endurance course, Physical Fitness Test, 6 and 9 mile hikes, and a Combat Fitness

Test. Non-graded PT events include a variety of runs and upper body development

sessions. Candidates are also given written tests, which cover a variety of subjects

including leadership, uniforms, customs and courtesies, and military law. During OCS

the candidates are given a variety of billets to gauge their leadership potential.

Candidates will be given a chance to lead their peers as Platoon Sergeants, Platoon

Commanders, Squad Leaders, and Fire Team Leaders. During these periods the

training cadre evaluate the candidates.

Lessons Learned

Bring all suggested gear for cruise When going on cruise make sure to bring all gear listed on the summer cruise packet.

You never know when certain events will pop up on base, which may require summer

whites or khakis.

Also, bring what the list suggests, including additional warming layers as this is

especially important during sub week of CORTRAMID. Your time slotted for cruise will

not be spent 100% on the sub or ship, and you will need proper civilian attire and

anything you may need to last the entire cruise. It is important to communicate with your

liaison before cruise to figure out if you will be able to store extra gear and what

uniforms will be expected to be used during the cruise. You will receive specific

guidance for CORTRAMID depending on which coast you are assigned.

Off-Campus Housing in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti Ann Arbor house hunting is very different than other college towns. Students begin

leasing apartments and houses as early as September of the year previous to move in.

If you want to live in off-campus housing, you should begin to look for your housing

location the September before the year you intend to move in to ensure that you find a

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good, inexpensive location. Freshmen are required to live in the dorms during their first

year.

It is advised that you find roommates. Roommates do not have to be in NROTC, but if

they are, it is helpful so that you can help each other be on time in the morning. When

finding housing, keep in mind that almost all locations ask for a security deposit upon

lease-signing – that is typically a month-and-a-half’s worth of rent. Try to find housing

close to campus and remember to visit the location before signing anything since

several houses close to campus are less than glamorous.

Advice for Success One of the biggest issues young Midshipman face is the fear of making a mistake.

Mistakes are bound to happen; the most important thing is to learn from them. If you

make a mistake, own up to it.

Work as a team, because you won’t get anywhere doing everything on your own. The

learning curve in the transition from high school to college can be difficult for some to

manage. Just because a certain studying style worked in high school, doesn’t mean it

will work in NROTC and college. Do not let this change in lifestyle get to you; use it to

build a new way of learning and studying to help in the continuous process of

selfimprovement.

Stay involved and don’t be a “ghost” midshipman, which means do not be the

midshipman that only shows up to required events and never participates in anything

else. The bonds you create from participating in extracurricular activities with other

midshipman is truly something special.

Know your strengths. Everyone has something to bring to the table. Also know your

weaknesses. This is the time to get better at things you struggle in. There is bound to be

someone in the battalion that can help you in an area where you’re struggling. The more

well rounded we are as a group, the better.

“Be prepared” is a motto you should always adhere to. Living by that statement will

assist you throughout your professional career. Always come prepared for weekly PT’s

and drill, and be prepared to succeed in a constantly changing environment. Plans can

change on a whim, and you must be ready for it. Consistently give 100% to prove to

yourself and your peers that you are serious about the program.

Keep in contact with your advisors. Your NROTC advisors are here to help you and

prepare you for what lies ahead in NROTC and in the fleet. Talk to them as much as

possible and really get to know them and get to understand why they chose their

warfare area or MOS. They are filled with knowledge and are always willing to help.

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Along with that you should let them get to know you; they cannot help you if you do not

let them understand what drives you.

Balance is key. You should create a balanced schedule and never try to overload

yourself on any one thing. You will need to learn how to schedule your days as they

quickly become filled with the different events you have to attend. The common solution

to that is a planner, so you can schedule your events for the week and know exactly

when you have free time and when you don’t.

Another key to living a balanced life is to go explore the different clubs and groups on

campus outside of NROTC. You will be amazed with the amount of different clubs,

sports, and groups you can participate in.

Working a part-time job can be a hassle and is not recommended, but you may be

required to if your stipend is not covering all your expenses. The universities are always

hiring and plenty of businesses around Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti love to hire NROTC

students.

Ultimately, this is only the beginning. You have a short time here before you begin your

career in the naval service, so enjoy the experiences you have here, and get the most

out of your time in NROTC.